If a child is not learning, what a teacher should do?

Question

If a child is not learning, what a teacher should do?

Answer 1

Break down the task into simpler learning activities. Once you break the task down, you can diagnose where the child is having a difficulty which might be the reason why s/he has difficulty performing more complex tasks. Focus on this weak spot and when the child has gained mastery, proceed with the more complex tasks.

Answer 2

try different methods, do activities that the child is interested in.

Answer 3

Well, first figure out why the child is not learning. Does the child have some sort of disability or does it stem from instructional problems or presentation?

If the child has a disability, he should be evaluated by a licensed psychologist and, if necessary, provided with special education services depending on his needs (resource room, special class, etc.).

Now, let's assume the child does not have a disability. Then, you should look at other factors. Is it a problem with the instructional program or the presentation of content? Teachers must realize that every child is different and information should be presented in multi-sensory fashion to accomodate the range of learning styles in the classroom. For example, some children learn via auditory means while others are more adept at kinesthetic or hands-on approaches. Gardner introduced the idea that individuals can have many types of intelligences and some are more dominant than others. Most individuals give preference to the linguistic intelligences (strengths in reading and writing) and instruction in schools usually favor children who are strong in this area- those who can read and write pretty well. It's unfair and the good teacher recognizes that there are multiple means of acquiring knowledge- not just book learning.

Also, examine the curriculum that is being used. I am forced to use a curriculum that I personally feel has little connection to the children I teach. Many of the children are provided with material that is at a much higher level than where they are academically. When this happens you have to be creative and find new ways to make sure they get the skills they need via scaffolding.

Also, offer little incentives for the kids when they reach a goal. And as a teacher, always give off the impression that you are a lifelong learner as well. I try to share how much I personally love to read with my students. I know many of them look up to me being that I look like them and they tend to mimic the things I do. Because of this, I try to show the positive. Good luck to you.

EDIT: Children from disadvantaged backgrounds may have other issues that affect learning. There may be nutritional problems or health reasons (not a disability). Family problems play a role. Students who are ELL's (English language learners) have the capability to learn but because of their status academics may suffer. Speaking from experience, I had a child this year who was struggling because she needed glasses. Other kids come to school hungry. Some have serious problems at home within their families. There could be a number of reasons. Analyze the situation individually.

Answer 4

tell the parents, they probably arnt doing enough at home, teachers cant shoulder all the responsibility, learning begins and ends in the home